7 Surprising Secrets About Denver Only Locals Know: Uncover hidden gems, quirky facts, and off-the-radar stories that give the Mile High City its unique charm.

Welcome to the Real Denver

As someone who lives and works in downtown Denver — and proudly calls The Spire home — I’ve had the chance to experience this city from a deeper perspective. Beyond the postcard views and famous breweries, Denver has layers of history, mystery, and local flavor that even some longtime residents don’t know about. Whether you’re new in town, planning a move, or just want to explore the city with fresh eyes, here are 7 little-known secrets that might just surprise you.

1. Underground Tunnels Beneath Downtown Denver

Yes, they’re real. Beneath Denver’s oldest streets lie a network of underground tunnels, some dating back to the late 1800s. These tunnels reportedly connected buildings like the Oxford Hotel, Union Station, and other points across LoDo. According to Denver Public Library archives and research shared by Westword, these passages were used for coal delivery — and, during Prohibition, possibly for more covert activities like bootlegging and brothels. While many are sealed off today, whispers of their existence add a whole new layer to downtown’s character.

📚 Source: Denver Public Library, Westword

2. Denver: The Birthplace of the Cheeseburger

You might think the cheeseburger was born in New York or L.A., but nope — it all started right here in Denver. In 1935, Louis Ballast of the Humpty Dumpty Drive-In on Speer Boulevard trademarked the name “cheeseburger.” Today, there’s even a commemorative plaque at 2776 N. Speer Blvd to mark the spot. It’s one of those facts that flies under the radar unless you’re a local or a burger aficionado.

📚 Source: Colorado Encyclopedia, History Colorado

3. The Mile High Marker Has Moved (Three Times!)

Everyone wants that iconic photo on the “Mile High” step at the State Capitol — but which one is actually the true 5,280-foot mark? Turns out, there are three different markers thanks to advances in measuring technology over the years. The original was placed in 1909, the second in 1969, and the most recent in 2003 after using GPS. The latest step is actually the 13th, if you're counting from the bottom.

📚 Source: Colorado State Capitol Tour

4. There’s a Hidden Urban “Beach” in the City

Locals know that when summer hits, Confluence Park turns into Denver’s urban beach escape. Located where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River, it’s a scenic spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, or just relaxing on the rocks with your feet in the water. Most visitors don’t expect to find this kind of natural escape right in the middle of downtown. Bonus: it’s just steps from Riverfront Park and the Highlands — two of the hottest real estate zones in the city right now.

📚 Source: Denver Parks & Recreation

5. The Story Behind “Blucifer” — DIA’s Demon Horse

If you’ve ever driven to Denver International Airport, you’ve seen the massive 32-foot-tall blue mustang with glowing red eyes. Affectionately (or fearfully) dubbed “Blucifer,” the sculpture has a dark backstory. Its creator, artist Luis Jiménez, was tragically killed when part of the statue fell on him during construction in 2006. DIA is already the subject of wild conspiracy theories — from underground bunkers to secret societies — and this haunting piece only adds fuel to the fire.

📚 Source: Denver International Airport Art Collection, Smithsonian Magazine

6. There’s a Secret Bar Hidden in a Bookstore

Tucked away in the LoHi neighborhood is Williams & Graham, a speakeasy-style bar hidden behind a functioning bookstore facade. Once inside, you’ll find some of the city’s best cocktails served in a cozy, prohibition-era atmosphere. It’s consistently ranked among the best bars in the country by sources like Esquire and The World’s 50 Best Bars. Living near places like this is part of what makes Denver’s urban neighborhoods so vibrant — and why LoHi remains such a desirable market for buyers.

📚 Source: Williams & Graham, Esquire

7. The Daniels & Fisher Tower Once Held a Dance Hall

Denver’s iconic clocktower — officially the Daniels & Fisher Tower — was once the tallest building west of the Mississippi and home to a posh dance hall in its spire. Built in 1910, it was a symbol of the city’s booming growth. Today, it’s used for weddings, special events, and even secret rooftop yoga classes. This blend of old-world glam and modern use is what I love most about downtown — and it’s why historic buildings here tend to hold their value over time.

📚 Source: Historic Denver, Downtown Denver Partnership

Conclusion: Discover Denver’s Hidden Personality

From haunted tunnels to hidden speakeasies, Denver has a playful, mysterious side that most people don’t see on the surface. And that’s exactly what makes it such an incredible place to live. If you’re thinking about moving here — or just want to explore the city’s soul a little deeper — I’d love to show you the neighborhoods and buildings where these stories come to life every day.